After a long career as a player and coach in the NBA, Phil Jackson deserves nothing more than a place to relax. His home in Playa del Rey is the perfect place.
The coastal decor project was a collaboration between Patrick Ediger of Patrick Ediger Design and Chelsea Sachs of Chelsea Sachs Design. “We spent months envisioning the space together, with the kitchen and master suite being the biggest challenges. We went through numerous iterations of floor plans and 3D models before finding the perfect solutions that appealed to Phil. This was our first time working together and it developed into a wonderful close friendship,” Ediger shares. Houses & Gardens.
“Nestled in Los Angeles’ Playa del Rey neighborhood right on the Pacific Ocean, the home underwent a complete renovation,” Ediger continues, describing the home’s old-school coastal style. “No stone was left unturned. Originally built in 1991, the three-story home has been a cherished family residence for over two and a half decades. It serves primarily as a winter retreat and has significant sentimental value, especially since it was purchased during Phil Jackson’s tenure with the LA Lakers.” Tour the home with beautiful images by Meghan Bob Photography.
(Photo credit: Meghan Bob Photography)
The renovation was a fruitful collaboration between the homeowner and the designers. Ediger says, “Phil, a devout Buddhist, had a vision that played a crucial role in shaping the aesthetic. He wanted the home to not only meet his functional needs, but also embody a harmonious, elemental balance in the interior design. His emphasis on incorporating the elements of fire, earth, water, metal and air shaped our design principles from the layout and architecture to the furniture and artwork.”
The house is divided into several sections, with this floor, the third floor, being the center of the design. “The third floor is the heart of the house, offering stunning sea views and a peaceful, light-filled space that is perfect for entertaining,” says Ediger. “Phil insisted on keeping the idea of the tongue-and-groove beamed ceiling and its meditation room. We were initially concerned about the dated look, but transformed the ceiling by refinishing it with a new coat of paint, which has turned out beautifully.
He continues, “The custom stainless steel staircase and railing complement the travertine fireplace and unique kitchen cabinets that feature modern Shaker paneling with a charcoal stain on cherry wood. The bamboo wood kitchen island and sea glass-inspired backsplash made from recycled bottles add to the unique design, with the resin pendants beautifully pairing with the glass backsplash.”
(Photo credit: Meghan Bob Photography)
Ediger adds, “A key aspect of our process was to ensure that the home retained its open, airy feel despite all the necessary remodeling. Our goal was to create a seamless transition from one room to the next and maximize ocean views from as many vantage points as possible. This required strategic space planning and meticulous attention to detail in every aspect of the design.”
(Photo credit: Meghan Bob Photography)
The coastal elegance look goes beyond style; it is also highly functional. Ediger tells H&G: “We made it a point to use materials and finishes that were not only aesthetically pleasing, but also durable and easy to maintain. Given the home’s proximity to the sea, we chose materials that would stand up to the coastal environment while still providing the luxurious feel Phil wanted. This balance of beauty and functionality was an important part of our design process.”
(Photo credit: Meghan Bob Photography)
The color scheme further reinforces the connection between the home and its outdoor environment. “The color palette for this home was primarily inspired by its stunning coastal surroundings,” says Ediger. “We wanted the interior to blend seamlessly with the exterior, which meant we had to frame every view and use muted tones that reflect the natural hues of the sand, sky and sea.”
He continues: “Soft, calming shades of blue, grey and beige dominate the space, creating a serene and harmonious atmosphere. The use of natural materials such as wood and stone further enhances this connection to the environment. This combination of carefully planned interior design and colour selection ensures that the home feels both calm and inviting, perfectly complementing its beautiful beachfront location.”
(Photo credit: Meghan Bob Photography)
The beauty of the home is not limited to the third floor, the guest apartments on the ground floor, including three beautiful guest bedrooms, are equally stunning. Ediger explains, “The main floor, originally a separate apartment (the house was originally designed as a duplex), was reimagined to better serve Phil and his extended family. Located right on the beach, steps from volleyball courts, the bike path, and the Pacific Ocean, this space had incredible potential. We removed walls and redesigned the stairwell connecting the ground floor to the upper floors to create a more inviting space.”
(Photo credit: Meghan Bob Photography)
(Photo credit: Meghan Bob Photography)
Ediger says, “It now includes a kitchen that serves as a bar, a family room with a fireplace surrounded by white oak built-in furniture, and an indoor/outdoor space ideal for gatherings. There is also a bedroom with bunk beds and a bathroom for the 11 grandchildren, as well as an entrance hall accessed via the garage, passageway, and an elevator to the upper floors.”
(Photo credit: Meghan Bob Photography)
(Photo credit: Meghan Bob Photography)
(Photo credit: Meghan Bob Photography)
Shop Homes & Gardens Modern Coastal Edit
These white ceramic vases fit perfectly with modern minimalist design. Can be used with dried flowers, pampas grass or succulents.
This textured blue and white pillow perfectly complements an oceanic blue and white color scheme on a coastal property
Bring nature into your home with dried eucalyptus, the ultimate fall bathroom decoration with its warm and muted tones.
For those looking to replicate Jackson’s design, Ediger recommends taking inspiration from nature: “To recreate the style of this home, start by taking inspiration from your natural surroundings.” He continues: “Choose a color palette that reflects the tranquil hues of sand, sky and water. Incorporate natural materials such as wood, stone and recycled elements to create a harmonious connection with nature. Pay attention to the flow and openness of the space and ensure that each room feels light, airy and connected to the outside world.”
Ediger adds, “Incorporate elements that are personally meaningful to you or culturally rich to add depth and character to your home. Focus on creating a balance between functionality and aesthetics, ensuring your space is not only beautiful, but also practical and comfortable for everyday life.”
“Finally, don’t be afraid to combine modern decor with traditional elements,” concludes Ediger. “For example, combining sleek, modern furniture with vintage or handmade pieces can help create a unique and inviting atmosphere. Remember, the goal is to create a space that feels calm, inviting and deeply connected to its surroundings, while reflecting your personal taste and style.”
